Paul Pommells

Redemption Story: Small Group Edition Paul Pommells

Publisher Marketing: Joseph Johnson grew up in church, got good grades in school, and seemed on track to become a college graduate and a successful professional. But he wasn't willing to give up his secret "thug life" and the street cred that seemed to authenticate him as a young Black man... When a confrontation spins out of control, Joseph finds himself in prison for attempted murder. His family is shattered by grief, his future is drained of hope. Is redemption really possible? "The new Small Group Edition offers discussion questions at the end of every chapter, while retaining the Book Club Questions appendix as well. While enjoying the unfolding tale of Redemption Story itself, readers and leaders can now explore its themes and insights more deeply and personally, chapter by chapter." "Paul Pommells' book is engaging and riveting. This is a masterfully-written account of life in prison and the road to rehabilitation." "- Marvin Avila, Ed. D." "Author Paul Pommells portrays vividly and realistically the common ethnic person caught up in a drop-out society. Despite the darkness of the prison system, Inmate Joseph realizes he has choices. This book of transformation is a must-read for we who choose to make a difference for a better world." "- Sister Mary Sean Hodges, O. P." "Redemption Story reveals the evolution I have personally witnessed in the lives of thousands of prisoners. From the "prison mentality" to the Prison Release Gate and beyond, the main character, Joseph, consistently makes the daily choices that ultimately break dysfunctional cycles. As the book states, this transformation leads to the design of noble traditions that endure. Redemption Story puts into words the vision I have for effective corrections: Academy-like education and peer-facilitated study with the essential component of permitting those living lives of service to do so in their home towns and communities. Together we can pave the way for the emerging reality and Paul Pommells provides the story to take us there." "- Mara Leigh Taylor, Founder/Director of GOGI"